A run and walk in Islamorada returned for the first time in two years, as roughly 100 participants took off from the starting line at Coral Shores High School. Runners and walkers from the area — and as far as Palm City — raced and strolled up the Old Highway beneath the towering hammocks on Plantation Key. Islamorada’s Tony Pallaria, 39, came across the finish line first with a time of 20 minutes and 13 seconds. Tavernier resident Cameron Sabin, 33, finished second at 20 minutes and 21 seconds. Third-place finisher was Tavernier resident Ryan Jacobsen, 43, who had a time of 21 minutes. Jessica Hanley, 27, of Tavernier, was the top female runner at 21 minutes and 30 seconds. Hollywood resident Paula Villarraga finished second with a time of 21 minutes and 55 seconds, and third-place Tess Hill, 15, of Tavernier, reached the finish line at 26 minutes.
The run on the Old Highway was revived by HNO Productions owner and Key Largo resident Henry Menendez. The race was formerly organized by Baptist Health South Florida’s Mariners Hospital.
“It was a great turnout for the first year,” Menendez said. “I want to especially thank all participants and volunteers who came out, and we’re looking forward to year two of the Old Highway Run on Nov. 15, 2025.”
Photos by DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly
